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Standards of Behaviour

Students sitting

We set very high standards for every student. As a result of this, we have set very clear standards of behaviour which we expect everyone to adhere to whilst attending Middlesbrough College or TTE. At the beginning of the student’s studies they will be informed about our standards of behaviour. 

We ask that students do not:

  • Leave any litter
  • Arrive late
  • Eat food in class
  • Disrupt lessons
  • Use phones for personal use in class
  • Disrespect students and staff
  • Smoke on College property
  • Use aggressive behaviour
  • Fight
  • Steal
  • Use drugs or alcohol
  • Vandalise College property

We expect students to:

  • Concentrate on their studies
  • Be punctual
  • Act responsibly
  • Work hard
  • Have an excellent attitude
  • Work as part of a team
  • Be positive
  • Be polite
  • Show respect to all
  • Bring the right kit
  • Not go on holiday during term time
  • Attend lessons
  • Follow classroom guidelines including laptops

Behaviour Management Process

At Middlesbrough College, we want every student to feel safe, supported and able to succeed. Our Behaviour Management Process helps students understand expectations, reflect on their actions and access support when needed. The focus is always on helping students make positive changes and remain engaged in their learning.

Our Approach

When concerns about behaviour arise, we work closely with students to:

  • Understand what has happened
  • Identify any underlying issues or support needs
  • Reinforce our College values and expectations
  • Set clear targets for improvement
  • Provide appropriate support and guidance

Progress through the stages only happens if concerns continue or if a more serious incident occurs.

Stage 0: Informal Warning

For minor concerns, a member of staff may issue an informal warning.

At this stage, staff will:

  • Discuss the behaviour with the student
  • Explain the expected standards of behaviour
  • Encourage reflection and positive choices

The conversation is recorded so that any patterns of behaviour can be monitored.

Stage 1: Verbal Warning

If concerns continue, the student’s Personal Tutor may issue a verbal warning.

During this meeting, the tutor will:

  • Explore any reasons behind the behaviour
  • Discuss wellbeing and any support needs
  • Explain the behaviour process
  • Reinforce College expectations

Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their behaviour and work towards improvement.

Stage 2: Written Warning

If further incidents occur, a written warning may be issued by the Personal Tutor or Curriculum Team Leader.

At this stage:

  • Clear improvement targets are agreed with the student
  • Additional support may be offered, where needed
  • Parents or carers will be contacted by phone and letter

Our aim is to work together with families to help the student get back on track.

Stage 3: Final Written Warning

If behaviour concerns continue, a Final Written Warning may be issued by an Associate Director.

This stage includes:

  • A detailed discussion about the student’s behaviour and wellbeing
  • Agreed targets and support plans
  • Referrals to internal or external support services where appropriate
  • Contact with parents or carers by phone and letter

Additional information may be shared with relevant College teams to ensure the student receives the right support.

In some cases, serious concerns, such as suspected alcohol or drug-related incidents, may move directly to this stage to allow support and safeguarding measures to be put in place quickly.

Suspension

In some situations, a student may be suspended from College.

Suspensions are only used when necessary and are based on the level of risk posed to the student, staff or wider College community.

Where possible:

  • Suspensions are kept as short as possible
  • Students receive support to minimise disruption to their education
  • Parents or carers are informed

Stage 4: Behaviour Panel Hearing

If concerns continue after previous interventions, a Behaviour Panel Hearing may be arranged.

The hearing gives students the opportunity to:

  • Have their voice heard
  • Explain their circumstances
  • Share any relevant information
  • Demonstrate how they can move forward positively

Parents and carers are always invited to attend and support their child.

The panel will consider:

  • The behaviour concerns raised
  • The support already provided
  • Any mitigating circumstances
  • The student’s willingness to improve

Support for Students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

Where a student has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), additional considerations are taken before any exclusion decision is made.

The College will work closely with the Local Authority and ensure all reasonable support measures have been explored before exclusion is considered.

Exclusion Reviews and Appeals

If exclusion is recommended, the decision is reviewed by senior College leaders to ensure that the process has been fair, consistent and all relevant information has been considered.

Students and families will be informed of the outcome in writing, along with details of any appeal process.

Working Together

We believe that strong partnerships between students, parents, carers and College staff are key to success. Throughout the Behaviour Management Process, our priority is to provide support, encourage positive behaviour and help every student achieve their potential.

View the full Positive Behaviour Management Policy here